FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE

The study investigated the influence of leadership style on employee motivation and performance in public organizations: A case study of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Edo State Command. To achieve the purpose of the study, four (4) research questions were raised and answered. To achieve the purpose of the study, four (4) research questions were raised and answered. The sample size for the study was made up of 100 respondents. The data collected was analyzed using frequency count and simple percentage. The study revealed that the manner in which leadership is practised significantly affects both the motivation and performance of employees in public organizations. It was concluded that leadership style is not merely a management function but a strategic determinant of employee motivation, job satisfaction, and institutional performance in public service delivery. The study recommended among others that public organizations, particularly the Nigerian Immigration Service, should prioritise democratic and transformational leadership approaches, as these styles have been shown to enhance employee motivation, engagement, and overall performance.

This dissertation explores the relationship between social capital and police performance in Ondo State: A case study of Akure South Local Government Area, Nigeria. The research objectives include assessing the current state of social capital, examining the effectiveness of police performance, investigating the relationship between social capital and police performance, and exploring the impact of socio-economic and cultural factors on the police-social capital dynamic. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The findings reveal that social capital is relatively low in Akure South LGA, while police performance is affected by various challenges. The study also identifies a positive correlation between social capital and police performance, indicating that communities with higher social capital tend to have better police performance. Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of socio-economic and cultural factors in shaping the police-social capital dynamic. The study recommends strategies for building social capital and improving police performance, including community policing, stakeholder engagement, and cultural sensitivity training for police officers. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on social capital and police performance, providing insights for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders seeking to enhance public safety and community well-being

The purpose of the study was to find out the the socio-economic determinants of
marital stability in Oredo Local government area, Edo State. It was a descriptive
research with emphasis on survey approach. Purposive sampling method was used to
cover both Urban and Rural areas of study. Findings revealed that marital conflicts
did exist. The results of the two hypotheses tested revealed that there were no significant differences in the causes of marital conflicts among couples based on level
of education and length of marriage. In conclusion, the inevitability of conflicts in any
form of marriage was established. To prevent or manage crisis therefore will depend
largely on the mutual understanding of couples involved. Based on this conclusion, it
is recommended that adequate provision be made for both preventive, remedial and
rehabilitative counseling, interventions through different bodies such as government
and non-governmental organizations {NGO’s} for the married and prospective couples to enhance marital stability in our societies.

This study explores the evolving landscape of youth culture within the University of Benin environment, with particular attention to the rise of counterculture and contraculture among young people. Employing a quantitative research approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 380 students at the University of Benin, Ugbowo Campus. The research examines how youths express their identities through fashion, language, music, digital media, and political engagement, and how these expressions often challenge or reject mainstream cultural norms. The university environment serves as a key space where young people interact, share ideas, question norms, and foster the emergence of new forms of cultural expression. Youths adopt or resist certain cultural practices based on social influences, dissatisfaction, and institutional pressures.The study reveals that youth identity is vibrant and multifaceted, shaped by global influences, digital media, societal expectations, and institutional contexts. While youth culture provides a platform for creativity and self-definition, the emergence of countercultural and contracultural behaviours often reflects a deeper sense of dissatisfaction with prevailing social norms and societal values.

This study examined the role of older adults in family stability in Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and a total of 520 questionnaires were administered to older adults across Egor LGA. In addition, an In-Depth Interview (IDI) guide was used to collect qualitative data from selected stakeholders to complement the survey findings. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and mean scores), while qualitative responses were thematically analyzed. The findings revealed that older adults play crucial roles in family stability, with overall mean score of 3.74 out of 5.0 max for 5 likert scale (representing 74.8%) confirms that older adults play positive and multifaceted roles in sustaining family stability; and inferentially X 2=608.5 (p<0.05) reveals that older adults have significant role in family stability. Secondly, there was a positive and significant impact of the economic status of older adults have on family stability (overall mean = 3.78 (75.6%); X 2 = 538.9, P <0.05). Thirdly, there was also a positive and significant effect of support networks of older adults on family stability (overall mean = 3.50 (70%); X 2 = 450.1 (P<0.05). Lastly, the health status of older adults has no positive and significant impact on family stability (Overall mean = 3.31 (66.2%), X 2 = 329.3, P<0.05). these results were complemented by IDI responses. The study recommended targeted policies and interventions by government, families, social workers, and community organizations to support older adults’ economic empowerment, health, and social integration

This study empirically examines the nexus between intra-trade and economic growth in thirteen ECOWAS countries. ECOWAS was formed to promote Trade liberalization scheme (ETLS) ECOWAS Common External Tariffs (CET) to eliminate trade barriers, encourage free flow of goods and services, simplify customs procedures and harmonized tariffs on goods imported from non ECOWAS countries. This has not improved the economy of the sub-region. Employing copious sequential econometric tools of descriptive statistics, correlation analysis as well as the causality analysis, the panel unit root, co-integration test and fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) method for the period 1990 – 2023. The empirical finding for the correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between economic growth (GDP per capita growth rate) and intra-regional trade. The correlation between human capital development (HCD) and economic growth is positive. The result between trade openness (TO) and economic growth is positive. The correlation coefficients among the explanatory variables are weak which implies that there is no multi-collinearity among the explanatory variables. For the granger causality test using the pair-wise Dumitrescue- Hurlin tests revealed that there is no causality between economic growth (GDP per capita growth) and intra-regional trade with causality running from either economic growth or intra-regional trade share to each other. However, the test showed that human capital development (HCD) causes economic growth (GDP per capita growth rate) implying that causality runs from human capital development to economic growth in the ECOWAS sub- region. For the panel cointegration tests (the Pedroni, Kao, and Johansen Firsher) revealed that there is a long run relationship among the study variables. Also, for the fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) method, the signs of all the estimated coefficients of the explanatory variable in the model conformed to their a priori expectations except intra- regional trade share and credit to the private sector as a share of GDP. The coefficient of intra-regional trade share is negative but insignificant implying that intra-regional trade does not have a significant effect on economic growth (GDP per capita growth rate) in ECOWAS sub-region. The coefficient of human capital development is positive and significant at 5 percent level, implying that it has a significant impact on economic growth in ECOWAS sub-region. The coefficient of trade openness is positive but fails the significant test at the 5 percent level of significant. Against the backdrop of these empirical findings, we recommend amongst other; ECOWAS should intensify efforts to fully implement the ECOWAS Common External Tariff and eliminate policy induced and non tariff barriers such as inconsistent customs procedures, excessive checkpoints, and unofficial fees that hinder the free movement of persons, goods and services to boost intra-regional trade in order to enhance rapid and sustained economic growth within the ECOWAS sub-region.

This study examines the relationship between state and local government fiscal interactions and their impact on development in Nigeria, with particular reference to Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. Fiscal relations between the state and local governments play a crucial role in determining the capacity of local governments to provide essential services and execute developmental projects. However, concerns have been raised regarding the extent to which financial dependence, revenue allocation mechanisms, and state control over local government funds affect grassroots development.
The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and utilized both primary and secondary sources of data. Questionnaires and interviews were administered to selected government officials, community leaders, and residents of Oredo Local Government Area. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of state-local fiscal relations and their implications for local development.
Findings revealed that while statutory allocations from the federal government constitute a major source of local government revenue, state government involvement in the administration and disbursement of these funds significantly influences the implementation of developmental projects. The study further found that inadequate financial autonomy, delays in fund releases, and excessive state control over local government finances hinder effective service delivery and infrastructural development at the grassroots level. Conversely, improved fiscal autonomy and transparent intergovernmental financial relations were identified as critical factors for enhancing local development.
The study concludes that effective state-local fiscal relations are essential for sustainable development in local government areas. It recommends greater financial autonomy for local governments, transparent management of public funds, timely release of statutory allocations, and strengthened accountability mechanisms to ensure that financial resources are effectively utilized for developmental purposes. These measures would enhance grassroots governance and promote socio-economic development in Oredo Local Government Area and Nigeria at large.

This study investigates gender-based violence (GBV) against women with physical disabilities in Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria, using a research methodology grounded in the Social Model of Disability and Feminist Theory. The chapter outlines the research design, population, sampling strategy, research instrument, methods of data collection and analysis, as well as ethical considerations and limitations. The methodology was carefully designed to ensure validity, reliability, and contextual relevance, with emphasis on the intersection of disability and gender in shaping experiences of GBV. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, enabling the collection of data at a single point in time to examine the prevalence, forms, and determinants of GBV without manipulating the study environment.. This design provided a cost-effective and efficient means of capturing both descriptive and correlational data within a sensitive and localized context. The target population included women aged 18years and above with physical disabilities in Oredo, estimated at approximately 125 based on data from the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) and community health records. Stratified random sampling was adopted to ensure representation across age categories and types of physical disabilities, thereby reflecting the intersectional vulnerabilities emphasized in Feminist Theory. The study’s sample size was determined using Yamane’s formula, resulting in approximately 100 respondents to account for potential non-responses. Data was collected using the Women’s Safety and Support Questionnaire (WSSQ), a structured and culturally sensitive instrument developed to measure GBV prevalence, socioeconomic vulnerabilities, mental health impacts, and coping strategies. The instrument incorporated standardized items from validated tools such as the WHO Multi-Country Study on Women’s Health and Domestic Violence, complemented by open-ended questions for qualitative insights. Accessibility considerations included large-print versions and provisions for oral administration. Validity and reliability were ensured through expert consultation, alignment with established instruments, and a pilot test with 10 respondents. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of ≥0.7 confirmed internal consistency. Data collection was carried out by trained assistants using in-person and online administration, with sensitivity training provided to address disability inclusion and GBV-related issues. Data analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS, alongside thematic analysis for qualitative responses.

This study investigates the effect of examination stress on students of the University of Benin, with particular focus on its causes, manifestations, and influence on academic performance and general well-being. The research aims to identify the major sources of examination-related stress, assess its impact on students’ academic outcomes, and examine the coping strategies employed by students in managing such stress. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected through the use of a structured questionnaire administered to a representative sample of students in the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Benin. The data obtained were analyzed using simple percentages and frequency distributions for clarity and easy interpretation. Findings revealed that factors such as inadequate preparation, fear of failure, pressure to achieve high grades, and poor time management significantly contribute to students’ stress during examinations. The study further discovered that examination stress leads to anxiety, emotional instability, poor concentration, and a decline in academic performance among students. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the university management should organize regular counseling sessions and stress management seminars to assist students in handling examination-related pressure. Lecturers are also encouraged to create supportive learning environments, while students should adopt effective study habits and time management skills. In conclusion, the study affirms that examination stress, though an inevitable part of academic life, can be effectively managed through institutional support, personal discipline, and proper preparation, thereby improving students’ academic performance and overall well-being

Migration, both internal and international, plays a significant role in shaping the growth and development of cities worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Benin City, located in Edo State, Nigeria, is experiencing rapid urbanization driven by migration, with rural-to-urban migration being a major contributing factor. This study investigates the impact of migration on Benin City's socio-economic, infrastructural, and urban planning dynamics. The research uses a descriptive survey design, gathering primary data from 385 respondents through structured questionnaires, including migrants, long-term residents, urban planners, business owners, and government officials. Secondary data from maps, journal articles, and institutional publications complement the primary data to provide a comprehensive understanding of migration trends. The study finds that migration is primarily driven by economic, social, and environmental factors, including job opportunities, educational prospects, and security concerns. Migration has led to significant demographic changes in Benin City, including increased population density, ethnic diversity, and a higher proportion of youth. The influx of migrants has positively influenced the economy through business growth, job market expansion, and remittances, while simultaneously creating challenges such as housing shortages, overcrowding, and strain on public services like healthcare, education, and transportation. Furthermore, migration has resulted in changes to urban planning and housing development, contributing to informal settlements and increasing pressure on urban infrastructure. The study suggests that policymakers and urban planners should focus on long-term strategies to address the challenges posed by migration, such as expanding healthcare, improving transportation, and prioritizing affordable housing development. The study emphasizes the need for policies that balance the benefits of migration with the necessity of sustainable urban growth.